Returning Japanese standout athletes from four years ago spark optimism for an even better showing at the Beijing Olympics.
With his third career title, the sekiwake will be considered for promotion to ozeki.
Mitakeumi moves back into sole possession of the lead to set up showdown with the grand champion.
The Dewanoumi stable wrestler has a one-win lead over Terunofuji at the midway point.
The No. 3 maegashira knocks the lone grand champion out of the lead with a huge upset.
The Mongolian-born grappler was pushed to the brink by upset-minded Daieisho.
But as history has shown, unexpected challengers can emerge at any time, especially with several outstanding wrestlers coming up the ranks.
Maegashira No. 1 Daieisho completed his title quest with a victory over Okinoumi on the final day of the tournament.
The now-retired Iwakuma will dispense his knowledge of pitching in his new job with the MLB club.
Although small by sumo standards, the 175-centimeter Tobizaru electrified fans when he went 11-4 in the Autumn Grand Sumo Tournament in September.
It was an announcement with titanic repurcussions: 'First of all, we confirmed that there is no question of canceling the Olympics,' Abe said. 'Following that, given...